Santa's Bike Rideout makes a comeback on Manx roads

The beloved annual Santa's on a Bike event is gearing up to take over the roads of the Isle of Man once again, inviting locals and visitors alike to cheer on the participants. Hundreds of motorcyclists dressed as Santa Claus will depart from Douglas, the islands capital, and journey towards a childrens hospice, passing through Castletown along the way.

Since its launch in 2018, the ride has raised more than 225,000 for Rebecca House, the islands sole childrens hospice, which provides respite, palliative, and end-of-life care for young patients.

Preparations and Schedule

Riders will gather on Victoria Street in front of the Plan.com headquarters from 09:00 GMT to enjoy mince pies and hot drinks before starting the ride at 10:00. To ensure safety, the Isle of Man Constabulary has announced that Victoria Street will be closed from Fort Street to the Jubilee Clock between 07:30 and 10:45. Access to Lord Street via Fort Street will remain open to minimize disruption.

Bus Vannin services will also be rerouted from Victoria Street at Fort Street during the closure. Routes serving Onchan and the Douglas estates will continue via Peveril Square to the Promenade.

Route Details

The ride will leave Douglas at 10:00, heading towards the Quarterbridge Roundabout before continuing south along New Castletown Road. The procession will pass through Santon, cross the iconic Fairy Bridge, and reach Ballasalla, eventually arriving in Castletown around 11:00. Riders will regroup at Castle Rushen High School before proceeding to Market Square, offering a festive spectacle for spectators.

The return journey will follow the same route back to Douglas, passing through Braddan to arrive at Rebecca House around midday. Organisers have noted that if weather or other conditions force a delay on Saturday, the ride will be held on Sunday instead.

Author: Connor Blake